Air Astra fleet doubles to six with third brand-new ATR 72-600

Dhaka: The country's youngest private carrier Air Astra has taken delivery of its third brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft, doubling its fleet to six aircraft in just over three months as the airline expands its domestic network and prepares to launch international operations.

The aircraft, bearing registration S2-STF, arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on September 30.

With the latest addition, Air Astra’s fleet has grown to six aircraft. The airline had earlier received two other new ATR 72-600s, S2-STD and S2-STE.

The latest aircraft is powered by a pair of Pratt & Whitney’s PW127XT engines and has 72 Geven Neo Prestige seats.

Air Astra CEO Imran Asif described the arrival of the third brand-new ATR 72-600 as a landmark moment for the airline, noting that the carrier had doubled its fleet within just over three months.

“This growth reflects the dedication of our team and the confidence of our passengers and partners,” he said.

The airline said the fleet expansion is aimed at strengthening domestic connectivity and meeting growing demand for air travel within Bangladesh.

Air Astra is also preparing for its next phase of expansion by adding narrowbody aircraft to its fleet for international operations.

The airline is targeting the launch of international flights from the first quarter of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and operational readiness.

Air Astra said it is currently working on adding narrowbody aircraft as it prepares to expand beyond the domestic market.

With six aircraft now in its fleet, the airline said it will continue to expand its domestic network while preparing to connect Bangladesh with international destinations.